Have a great weekend, all! Enjoy the spring weather! - Principal Vince Fino
Kindergarten Registration Window Opened on March 12th: If you know someone with a child who will be five years old by December 1, 2025, please tell them that Kindergarten Registration will begin on March 12. The registration packet will be available on the district website -- carmelschools.org -- on that date. More info to come.
Tick Season is Here:
As we move into warmer weather, we want to remind everyone that tick season is here. Ticks can carry illnesses such as Lyme Disease, so it's important to take steps to keep your children safe.
Here are some helpful tips:
Please encourage your child to notify a staff member if they feel they’ve been exposed to ticks, so we can take the necessary precautions. Please see this link from the U.S. Department of Agriculture about additional information regarding tick precaution: Checking for ticks | US Forest Service. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our school community safe.
KPS Field Day: Kent Primary School Field Day will take place on June 16th, 2025. The rain date for Field Day is June 17th, 2025.
Story Time with the Teachers: On Monday, May 12th at 4:30 PM, Kent Library will host a reading event for students (K – 4th Grade). Please see the flier attached.
Memorial Day Recess: School will be closed from May 23rd – May 27th for Memorial Day Recess.
Kindergarten Registration Window Opened on March 12th: If you know someone with a child who will be five years old by December 1, 2025, please tell them that Kindergarten Registration will begin on March 12. The registration packet will be available on the district website -- carmelschools.org -- on that date. More info to come.
KPS Community Cookbook!: The 24-25 KPS Community Cookbook is here! Thank you for all of your wonderful, tasty contributions, and thank you to Mrs. Miller, KPS Administrative Assistant, for all of her help with the editing of the book. Please see the link on Parentsquare.
SEPTO April Sensory Carts: CCSD SEPTO is so excited to announce all our Carmel Central Schools Elementary Schools have a sensory cart! SEPTO is currently working on GFMS & CHS Sensory Break Rooms. If you would like to donate to the SEPTO sensory items, here is the wish list link: Amazon.com
Multicultural Fair: The district-wide Multicultural Fair returns on Friday, May 2nd, from 5 –8 PM at George Fischer Middle School. Please see the flier on Parentsquare.
3rd and 4th Grade CBT Testing: CBT Math will take place on 5/5 and 5/6.
KPSPTO Family Night Book Fair: – 6- 8 PM on May 7th.
Kent Library Field Trip: I’m excited to share that Kent Primary School students will be going on a field trip to Kent Library during the first week of June. There will be all sorts of reading activities and fun for the students. In advance of the trip, please see this link if your student does not have a library card yet: Getting a Library Card and Check Out Policies – Kent Public Library.
Kent Library Field Trip Schedule:
June 3rd - 2nd grade a.m. and 3rd grade p.m.
June 4th - 1st grade/PACE a.m. and Kdg. p.m.
June 5th - 4th grade a.m.
The bus times for a.m. trips would be as follows: leave school at 9:45, arrive at library at 10:00, leave library at 11:30 and arrive back to KPS at 11:45. The bus times for p.m. trips would be as follows: leave school at 1:05, arrive at library at 1:20, leave library at 2:50 and arrive back to KPS at 3:05.
Attendance: Consistent attendance is essential to every student’s success. Our attendance policy is supported by the New York State Department which defines chronic absenteeism as missing 10 percent of school days; a total of 18 days throughout the school year. With our commitment to student success in mind, we are steadfast in our obligation to notify families of their child’s attendance to ensure that they are able to access their education.
Attendance letters are mailed home periodically throughout the school year as another means to notify parents/guardians of their child’s attendance. These letters are informational and serve as a reminder that a student's success is in direct correlation to their attendance rates. All students of a compulsory age are required to be in school. If a student is absent due to illness, a parent note and/or doctor note is required for the absence to be deemed "excused." The chronic absenteeism definition of missing 18 days or more throughout the school year is regardless of whether absences are excused or unexcused.
Carmel Central School District is dedicated to the success of its students, and we would like to thank you for your continued support as we help shape our students and create a foundation where they can thrive.
Sincerely,
Vincent Fino
KPS Principal
Congratulations to our Eagle Ticket winners!
Memorial Day Recess
Schools Closed
The 2025-26 Budget Newsletter has been mailed to residents throughout the Carmel Central School District. You don't, however, have to wait for yours to come in the mail. You can read it right here: 2025-26 Budget Newsletter.
Families who are looking for a tasty meal have a new resource to turn to: The Kent Primary School Community Cookbook.
The book features nearly 50 recipes that range from Irish Soda Bread, to Zeppoles to Chiles Rellenos and Marry Me Chicken.
“A community cookbook in a diverse neighborhood is more than just a collection of recipes – it’s a celebration of culture, connection and shared stories,” said Third Grade Teacher Alison Spunt. “By bringing together dishes from different backgrounds, it fosters inclusion, preserves traditions and builds community pride, all while introducing neighbors to new flavors and traditions.”
Fourth graders in all three Carmel Central School District elementary schools learned about the American Revolution in a History Day celebration that allowed them to experience life the way soldiers did 250 years ago. They dressed in uniform, marched, drilled and pitched tents.
Colonial and Revolutionary history are part of the fourth-grade curriculum and George Fischer Middle School Social Studies Teacher Keith Reilly and Carmel High School History Teacher Rob Buccheri visited Kent Elementary School, Kent Primary School and Matthew Paterson Elementary School to help bring American history to life for the youngsters.
GFMS Reading Teacher Denise Santalis organized the event and took the fantastic photos.
The CCSD Parents Group is sponsoring a Meet the Candidates Night on Monday, May 12 at 7 p.m. in the George Fischer Middle School Auditorium. It will be livestreamed and then posted on the district website for those who cannot attend in person.
Five candidates are running for three open seats on the Board of Education.
The candidates, in the order they will appear on the ballot, are:
Nicholas Magliano
Frank Grasso
Michael Torpey
Prakash Tewari
Nathaniel Query
Questions for the candidates may be submitted in advance by emailing gfmspta@carmelschools.org by May 5.
The Budget Vote and Board of Education Election is Tuesday May 20.
March is Disability Awareness Month and the Carmel Central School District has a lot of informative, helpful and interesting activities planned. Please take a look at the attached schedule. We look forward to seeing you.
Heather Carlson’s second grade class at Kent Primary School LOVES to read! So, what better way to spend a windy, cold day than snuggled up with a good book! The class came to school in comfy clothes or pajamas and brought a favorite stuffed animal and a blanket from home. The students worked together to make forts, grabbed some flashlights and books and spent a large portion of the afternoon reading in their creations for Read Across America Week. They brought books from home and utilized the classroom library, sharing the joy of reading with each other. The teachers even brought their books and joined the class in their forts to read.
Carmel Central School District residents who volunteer with fire departments or ambulance corps will see a 10 percent reduction in their school taxes in return for their service.
The Carmel Board of Education voted February 25 to give volunteers with at least two years of service a 10 percent cut in the property tax assessment of their primary residence. The vote was unanimous.
“For example, the impact in the Town of Kent would result in an $800 savings for each person receiving the exemption,” Assistant Superintendent of Business Ken Silver said.
The reduction would cost the remaining taxpayers 1.2 cents on every thousand dollars of assessment.
“If your home is assessed at $400,000, the property owner would be paying $4.80 in addition each year for the volunteers who are risking their lives,” Silver said.
More than 35 volunteers attended the board meeting and School Board President Melissa Orser thanked them for keeping the community safe.
“We are giving you a little bit back for giving us a lot,” she said.
The volunteer tax break will help the entire community in the long run.
“Anything we can do to assist with local fire companies’ recruitment and retention benefits the entire community,” said Trustee John C. Curzio II. “If we ever had to go to a paid fire service, town taxes would increase as much as 50 percent, which would result in a huge burden on our community.”
One group of four-year-olds served their teacher a make-believe breakfast while another played with building blocks and a third practiced cutting out pictures.
It was a busy day in Carmel Central School District’s first Universal Pre-Kindergarten program, which started on Monday, January 6.
“We want to teach them everything they need to know before kindergarten, but we do it in a fun way,” said Theresa McCaffrey, Executive Director of Little Leaf preschool in Carmel.
Little Leaf is one of three preschool programs chosen to provide services to the 75 students who enrolled in Carmel’s first semester of universal pre-kindergarten. Creative Kids and Kids Cottage preschools are also hosting the program.
School Superintendent Erin Meehan-Fairben made starting Universal Pre-Kindergarten one of her first goals for the district. The program, which is funded through state and federal grants, is provided at no cost to district families.
“The benefits of early childhood education are clear, and include improved school readiness, better academic performance and a reduced achievement gap,” said Dr. Fairben, who took over as Carmel’s School Superintendent in July and got to work right away to ensure that all of Carmel’s students would have access to good preschool education. “It is an investment that lasts a lifetime.”
We are a community that is dedicated to developing and inspiring children to be their best selves in all aspects of their lives.
Who We Are:
We are a cohesive community of professionals with a strong sense of family that possess, celebrate and share our unique and individual strengths. We share a common focus to help, facilitate and encourage young minds to grow and fulfill their potential. As facilitators of learning, we utilize a multitude of resources to model and promote these desired outcomes. A strong cohesive community.
What We Do:
As an academic institution we contribute to the development of minds through inspiring children to create and pursue their own goals and objectives. We accomplish this by creating a welcoming, nurturing and trusting environment for all that empowers children to work alongside their peers, regardless of limitations, ultimately becoming independent lifelong learners. Foster personal and academic growth.
Who We Do It For:
Our service is focused on the children who will develop a solid foundation of skills, knowledge and values, maximizing their individual potential along the way. This will in turn contribute to the perpetual improvement of society. Our children.
Why We Do It:
As we practice our deep commitment to learning, we accept the roles we fulfill because we understand that children require a safe, positive environment in which to develop into self-motivated and socially appropriate adults. We realize that fulfilling these responsibilities has an even greater benefit to all of us as a growing and ever evolving global community. To inspire children to be their best in all aspects of their lives
Upcoming Board of Education Committee Meetings:
Special Education, Support & Wellness Committee: 05/06/25, 5:30 p.m., Carmel High School, Library Lab
Facilities & Transportation Committee: 05/27/25, 5:30 p.m., Carmel High School, Library Lab
Audit, Finance & Personnel Committee: 05/06/25, 5:30 p.m., Carmel High School, Science Room
Policy Committee: 05/29/25, 6:00 p.m., Administrative Office, Executive Conference Room
The Board of Education will be holding a special meeting on Thursday, May 22, 2025, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Carmel High School library lab. The Board will adopt the budget vote and election results, then immediately enter Executive Session. There will be no public participation.
The Board of Education will be holding a special meeting on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Start time is currently TBD. The meeting will be held in the Carmel High School Library lab. The Board will immediately enter executive session There will be no public comment.
The next Board of Education meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at the Carmel High School. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by an immediate entry into a 30-minute Executive Session. The public portion of the meeting will begin with a Budget Public Hearing at 7:00 p.m., immediately followed by a regular Board of Education meeting.
Community members who wish to speak during the public comment section of the Board meeting are asked to sign up in advance using our Public Comment Sign-up Form here: https://forms.office.com/r/SnQBCFWYy8
Board meetings will continue to be live streamed on this page. Committee meetings are open to the public.
This year, elementary school cross-zone transportation requests are accepted between April 1st and June 1st prior to the start of the new school year.
Students are assigned to one of our three elementary schools based on their residential address.
Cross-zone change requests are primarily considered when the pick-up/drop-off of a student’s childcare is not within the attendance zone assigned for their elementary school.
You can request to transfer your child to the elementary school that is within the attendance zone of their childcare by completing the Cross-Zone Change Request form.
If your request is for a reason other than childcare, and approved, transportation will be your responsibility.
All requests will be reviewed over the summer and a decision will be made once class enrollment size has been determined.
You will be notified of a decision, in writing, by August 1, 2025.
Thank you!
Enjoy the District's newsletter here.
April 11, 2025
Dear Carmel Community:
When spring arrived, it brought a rush of school district activities with it. From the impressive 41st Annual Student Art Show, to competitive athletic events and the Districtwide Read of “I’m Not a Scribble,” our students have been busy.
Let’s hope they take time during this upcoming break to relax and recharge.
I want you to know how grateful I am for the chance to lead this district. It is amazing to see how much our students have accomplished in just months. Our hardworking teachers, administrators and staff make it seem easy, but we know they are guiding students every step of the way.
Remember, schools will be closed Monday, April 21 because we did not use all our snow days. I look forward to getting back on Tuesday, April 22 and gearing up for all the exciting end-of-year activities.
Enjoy your spring break!
Sincerely,
Erin Meehan-Fairben, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Dear Carmel Community:
Our kindergarten registration for the 2025-26 school year is now open. To qualify, children must be five years old by December 1, 2025 and live within Carmel Central School District boundaries.
Here is the link to the kindergarten registration: New Student Registration - Carmel Central School District.
If you know someone with a kindergarten-aged child, please share this email so they can register the child for school. Thanks!
Respectfully,
Erin Meehan-Fairben, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Dear Carmel Families,
As we approach the upcoming standardized testing period for students in grades 3-8, I want to take a moment to reaffirm our collective commitment to the academic growth and success of all our students.
Standardized testing is a key component of our educational system, providing valuable insights into student learning, the effectiveness of instruction and overall school performance. The data from these assessments helps us tailor teaching strategies to better meet individual student needs and evaluate the strength of our districtwide curriculum.
We understand that standardized testing can bring a range of emotions for students, parents and educators alike. It is our shared responsibility to ensure that the testing experience is as positive and supportive as possible, in alignment with our goal of fostering a nurturing and effective learning environment.
To address concerns about potential stress or anxiety, our district has implemented strategies to create a calm and supportive atmosphere during the testing period. These strategies include clear communication with students about the purpose of the assessments, the provision of helpful resources and guidance on effective test-taking techniques. We encourage open and ongoing dialogue between parents, teachers and students to ensure that we approach the testing process together in a constructive and collaborative way.
Additionally, I would like to stress the importance of student participation in the testing process. The data we gather from these assessments not only highlights areas for growth but also plays a crucial role in maintaining and improving the academic standards of our district.
Thank you for your continued dedication to supporting quality education and fostering a positive learning environment within Carmel Central School District. If you have any questions or concerns about the testing process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s principal or the district office.
We truly appreciate your partnership in helping our students thrive.
Respectfully,
Erin Meehan-Fairben, Ed.D.
February 13, 2024
Dear Carmel Community:
This has been quite a stormy winter, and I think we could use a break about now, so I hope you all have a fun and relaxing winter recess.
I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for giving me the opportunity to lead this district. In the past several months, I have seen how deeply this community cares about its children and its schools. I am grateful to have the support of a talented staff that is dedicated to making sure students have access to opportunities that will help them grow.
It’s great to work in a district where residents and staff are so engaged.
School resumes on Monday, February 24. I look forward to welcoming our staff and students back then. Enjoy the precious time with your families.
Regards,
Dear Carmel Community:
Come discuss the draft Proposed 2025-2026 School Budget with me on Wednesday, February 12, from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. in my office at the District Office. Everyone is welcome to just drop in for coffee, conversation and to review the draft budget. If the time doesn't work for you, email me at emeehan@carmelschools.org to schedule a time.
Regards,
Erin Meehan-Fairben, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Dear Carmel Community:
I am reaching out today to provide an update on the Town Hall held on January 28 and to keep you apprised of important information from NYSED. I also want to reaffirm our district’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every student in Carmel feels safe, welcomed and valued.
We had an amazing turnout at last night’s Town Hall meeting at Carmel High School.
More than 75 district residents attended and learned about our strategies to make certain that Carmel schools are welcoming, affirming and safe places for all. After the presentation by District Equity Team members, residents broke into groups and discussed their ideas about our district’s strengths and ways we can improve. We also looked at external opportunities and threats that could prevent the district’s work. Each group then presented their ideas, outlining a framework for the district’s most important next steps.
“I am thrilled by the turnout,” Board of Education President Melissa Orser said. “This was a collaborative assignment. I hope we can take all this information and move our work on equity forward.”
In the coming days, I will compile all the information, share it with the entire Board, meet with my administrative council and immediately focus on improving our schools.
The district continues its commitment to support all our students. We would like to draw your attention to a recent guidance document from the Office of the Governor, Attorney General and State Education Department New York State’s Guidance on Safeguarding the Rights of Immigrant Students. Our policies and practices are in alignment with this guidance.
Here are a few important points to keep in mind:
As this is a rapidly changing environment, we are working closely with our school attorneys and the New York State Education Department to ensure we have the most current and accurate information. Additionally, we have shared resources with our administrators to support our students and their families during this time.
We are responsible for every child’s educational journey. Please be assured that we in the Carmel schools take that responsibility seriously. All students in the Carmel schools will continue to have access to education that informs, challenges and helps them grow.
I am so grateful to be working in such an engaged, child-focused community.
Respectfully,
Erin Meehan-Fairben, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Dear Carmel Community:
I would like to update you on the status of our January 28 Town Hall meeting.
When we announced the meeting, we said that it would be a community conversation on diversity, equity and inclusion, and be led by a specialist from U.S. Department of Justice, Community Relations Service.
A lot has changed, however, in the weeks since I sent that announcement. Now, given the Trump administration’s recent ban on DOJ participation in any diversity, equity and inclusion work, there will not be a representative from the DOJ at our meeting.
More than ever, we are now relying on you to join us for the Town Hall. Let’s work together to create a welcoming, affirming and safe environment for all our schools. The meeting will be in the Carmel High School Library on Tuesday, January 28 from 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
As planned, our meeting will still include a presentation by the District Equity Team, which will be followed by a breakout session where you will help assess the Carmel Central School District’s strengths and weaknesses.
I really hope to see you there.
Respectfully,
Erin Meehan-Fairben, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
August 14, 2024
Dear Carmel Central School District Community,
After our board meeting on August 13, 2024, the board has carefully listened to and reflected on the sentiments expressed by some members of our community. Now, we need your help in moving forward.
We heard from many of you who felt unwelcome or unsafe at our board meetings. We want to make it clear that the board stands united in denouncing all forms of discrimination, prejudice, harassment, bullying, and hate. We are dedicated to supporting all of our community.
Our mission at Carmel Central School District is to educate the whole child in an environment free of bullying, harassment, and discrimination. We have received numerous letters, emails, and concerns brought to us at the podium, and we are committed to addressing them, as we have historically done, with our mission at the forefront.
We ask for the community’s collaboration in maintaining a respectful and inclusive atmosphere at our board meetings. The board needs to focus on the district’s important business with our new superintendent while adhering to the standard of conduct outlined in our Code of Conduct.
We ask for your adherence to our Code of Conduct as we strive to create a welcoming, affirming and productive environment for all members.
Thank you for your continued support and cooperation.
Respectfully,
Board of Education President Melissa Orser
Vice President Dawn Dall
Trustee John C. Curzio II
Trustee Jordi Douglas
Trustee Jason Paraskeva
Cc: Superintendent of Schools
If you like something a CCSD staff member has done, tell us at compliments@carmelschools.org. Likewise, if there is an area you think needs improvement, send an email to complaints@carmelschools.org. Both email addresses will go directly to School Superintendent Dr. Erin Meehan-Fairben and to the Board of Education President Melissa Orser.
